Mumbai, the bustling metropolis, is surrounded by some of India’s most revered spiritual destinations Near Mumbai. Whether you seek blessings, tranquility, or a connection with divinity, these sacred places near Mumbai offer a perfect retreat. From ancient Jyotirlingas to powerful Devi temples and holy pilgrimage towns, each destination has a unique spiritual significance.
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In this blog, we explore the best spiritual destinations near Mumbai, including Shirdi, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Dehu-Alandi, Vajreshwari Devi Mandir, Jivdani Mata Mandir, and Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga. Each location is covered with an overview, how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, best nearby places to visit, and travel tips to help you plan a soulful journey.
1. Shirdi – The Abode of Sai Baba is the most Spiritual Destinations Near Mumbai
Overview
Shirdi is one of India’s most famous pilgrimage sites, dedicated to Sai Baba, a saint revered by millions for his teachings of love and devotion.
How to Reach
- By Road: 240 km from Mumbai (~5-hour drive via NH160).
- By Train: Nearest station is Sainagar Shirdi (accessible via Manmad Junction).
- By Flight: Shirdi Airport (flights from Mumbai, Delhi, and other cities).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (pleasant weather, ideal for darshan).
- Avoid peak seasons like Ram Navami & Guru Purnima if you dislike crowds.
Things to Do
- Attend Kakad Aarti & Shej Aarti at Sai Baba Temple.
- Visit Dwarkamai, Chavadi, and Samadhi Mandir.
- Explore Shani Shingnapur (45 km away).
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Sai Heritage Village
- Shirdi Sai Baba Museum
- Lendibagh (Lendi Garden)
Travel Tips
- Book online darshan passes to avoid long queues.
- Stay in trusted hotels near the temple for convenience.
- You Can Book Cab From Mumbai To Shirdi One day trip
2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – The Sacred Godavari Source
Overview
Trimbakeshwar, near Nashik, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is believed to be the origin of the Godavari River.
How to Reach
- By Road: 180 km from Mumbai (~4-hour drive via NH160).
- By Train: Nashik Road Railway Station (28 km from Trimbakeshwar).
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon (July-September) for scenic beauty.
- Maha Shivratri & Shravan Month (special rituals).
Things to Do
- Take a holy dip in Kushavarta Kund.
- Perform Pind Daan & Rudrabhishek.
- Visit Brahmagiri Hill (trekking spot).
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Anjaneri Fort (Birthplace of Lord Hanuman)
- Sula Vineyards (Nashik)
- Pandavleni Caves
Travel Tips
- Carry a change of clothes for the holy dip.
- Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon due to slippery steps.
- You Can Book One day trip To Trimbakeshwar From Mumbai
3. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Amidst Pristine Forests
Overview
Located in the Sahyadri hills, Bhimashankar is another Jyotirlinga surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
How to Reach
- By Road: 110 km from Mumbai (~3-hour drive via Pune).
- By Train: Nearest station is Pune (95 km away).
Best Time to Visit
- June to February (cool weather, great for trekking).
Things to Do
- Trek to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Visit Hanuman Lake & Gupt Bhimashankar.
- Attend Mahashivratri celebrations.
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Nagphani (Duke’s Nose)
- Lonavala & Khandala
- Aamby Valley
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
- Start early to avoid afternoon crowds.
- You can visit during Mumbai To Bhimashankar One Day Trip
4. Dehu – Alandi – The Land of Sant Tukaram & Dnyaneshwar
Overview
Dehu and Alandi are twin pilgrimage towns associated with Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, key figures in Maharashtra’s Bhakti movement.
How to Reach
- By Road: 120 km from Mumbai (~3-hour drive via Pune Expressway).
- By Train: Nearest station is Pune (25 km from Alandi).
Best Time to Visit
- November to February (pleasant weather).
- Ashadhi Ekadashi & Kartiki Ekadashi (major festivals).
Things to Do
- Visit Sant Tukaram Mandir (Dehu).
- Seek blessings at Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi (Alandi).
- Attend Palkhi Procession (if visiting during festivals).
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Shaniwar Wada (Pune)
- Osho Ashram
- Sinhagad Fort
Travel Tips
- Respect local customs during festivals.
- Try Puran Poli (traditional sweet).
- You can Book Mumbai To Dehu Alandi One day trip
5. Vajreshwari Devi Mandir – The Goddess of Lightning
Overview
Located near Bhiwandi, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Vajreshwari, believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes.
How to Reach
- By Road: 75 km from Mumbai (~2-hour drive).
- By Train: Nearest station is Vasai (30 km away).
Best Time to Visit
- Navratri & Diwali (special celebrations).
Things to Do
- Take a dip in Tapta Kund (hot water spring)/ Akloli Kund.
- Visit Shri Tungareshwar Mahadev Temple (nearby).
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Ganeshpuri (Bhagwan Nityanand Ashram)
- Kelva Beach
Travel Tips
- Avoid weekends if you prefer a quiet visit.
- Carry minimal belongings (crowded temple area).
6. Jivdani Mata Mandir – The Hilltop Goddess
Overview
Perched on a hill in Virar, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Jivdani, attracting devotees for blessings and trekking.
How to Reach
- By Road: 60 km from Mumbai (~1.5-hour drive).
- By Train: Virar Station (3 km from base).
Best Time to Visit
- Winter mornings (best for trekking).
Things to Do
- Trek 1,200+ steps to the temple.
- Enjoy panoramic views from the top.
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Arnala Fort & Beach
- Vasai Fort
Travel Tips
- Carry water & wear comfortable shoes.
- Avoid peak afternoon sun.
- Mumbai to Vajreshwari & Jivdani One-Day Trip by Private
7. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Near Chhtrapati Sambhaji Nagar
Overview
The 12th Jyotirlinga, located near Ellora Caves, is a must-visit for Shiva devotees.
How to Reach
- By Road: 340 km from Mumbai (~6-hour drive).
- By Flight: Aurangabad Airport (30 km away).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (cool weather).
Things to Do
- Visit Ellora & Ajanta Caves.
- Explore Daulatabad Fort.
Best Nearby Places to Visit
- Bibi Ka Maqbara
- Panchakki (Water Mill)
Travel Tips
- Combine with Aurangabad sightseeing.
- Book a guide for historical insights.
- You can Visit Pune to Ellora caves One day trip
Final Thoughts
These spiritual destinations near Mumbai offer divine blessings, historical richness, and serene surroundings. Whether you seek the powerful Jyotirlingas, the grace of Devi temples, or the wisdom of saintly towns, each place provides a unique spiritual experience.
Plan your pilgrimage wisely, respect local customs, and immerse yourself in the divine aura of these sacred sites!
FAQs for Spiritual Destinations Near Mumbai
1. Which is the closest spiritual place from Mumbai?
- Jivdani Mata Mandir (Virar) and Vajreshwari Temple are the closest (~1.5-2 hours).
2. Which Jyotirlinga is easiest to visit from Mumbai?
- Bhimashankar (~3 hours) and Trimbakeshwar (~4 hours).
3. Are these destinations suitable for one-day trips?
- Yes, Vajreshwari, Jivdani, and Bhimashankar can be covered in a day.
4. Which place is best for a peaceful retreat?
- Dehu-Alandi and Bhimashankar offer serene vibes.
5. What should I wear to these temples?
- Modest clothing (avoid shorts/sleeveless).
